Picardy Spaniel

The Picardy Spaniel is an elegant and robust breed that traces its origins back to the Picardy region in France, where it was originally developed for hunting, pointing, and retrieving. This breed is renowned for its combination of strength, agility, and a gentle nature, making it not only a valued working spaniel but also a loyal family pet. The Picardy Spaniel is adaptable, thriving in both field environments and domestic settings, especially in homes that offer an active lifestyle.

Physically, this breed is characterized by a sturdy yet graceful build, complemented by a gentle demeanor that suits family life. With a strong, slightly wavy coat, a broad head, expressive amber eyes, and a unique gait that signifies endurance and determination, the Picardy Spaniel is as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional. Its temperament is marked by playfulness, protectiveness, and a desire to please, which makes training a rewarding experience.

The ideal owners for this breed are active individuals or families residing in rural or semi-rural areas, providing ample secure outdoor space and daily mental stimulation. Those familiar with the needs of working or sporting breeds will find the Picardy Spaniel a perfect fit, as it requires consistent training, socialization, and engagement.

Maintaining a Picardy Spaniel involves regular grooming to keep its coat healthy, daily exercise to meet its high energy demands, and preventive health care. Prospective owners should be prepared for moderate shedding and should employ positive reinforcement in training to ensure the best behavioral outcomes.

Perfect For

Individuals with experience in dog ownership and hunting enthusiasts looking for a smart, cooperative gundog; families who enjoy outdoor activities and rural living; those committed to providing daily exercise and socialization.

Key Considerations

Requires a secure, well-fenced yard due to its inquisitive nature and potential to escape; not ideal for novice dog owners; needs frequent mental challenges to avoid boredom; sensitive to harsh training methods, requiring gentle, consistent guidance.

Originating in the picturesque Picardy region of France, the Picardy Spaniel's history dates back to the early 1900s. Officially recognized as a distinct breed in 1907, its standard was established the following year, highlighting its enduring traits and capabilities.

Early Development

Primarily bred as a versatile gundog, the Picardy Spaniel was designed to navigate diverse terrains, from marshlands and dense brush to open fields and water bodies, excelling in hunting, pointing, and retrieving. Selective breeding focused on creating resilient, powerful, and adaptable dogs with remarkable stamina and a gentle temperament. Their role required durability and a keen sense of smell, with a strong emphasis on clear pointing rather than flushing game.

Modern Recognition

Despite the adversities of World War I and II, the breed persisted thanks to dedicated supporters. The formation of the French Breed Club in 1921 and its merger in 1937 with the Blue Picardy Spaniel Club revitalized and enhanced the breed's quality. While the Picardy Spaniel remains uncommon outside France, it is esteemed in field trials and dog sports across Europe, including Germany and Austria. Recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), it is yet to gain recognition from The Kennel Club in the UK as of 2025. Breed clubs worldwide continue to advocate for the Picardy Spaniel's preservation and standards.

Size and Build

The Picardy Spaniel is a medium-sized breed, with males reaching heights of 21.5-24.5 inches and females 21.5-23.5 inches. Both genders weigh between 44 and 55 pounds. This breed's physique exemplifies a blend of strength and grace, featuring muscular necks that transition into well-developed shoulders, a broad chest, and a sturdy back that slopes slightly at the withers. The loins are full, with rounded, slightly sloping croups, creating a silhouette that balances power with agility.

Coat and Colors

This breed sports a dense, moderately long coat with finer hair on the head and softly wavy fur on the body. The typical color pattern includes grey mottling with brown markings, particularly tan on the limbs and head, and brown near the tail's base. White patches, dapples, or black markings are seen as faults. Seasonal shedding occurs in spring and fall, but regular grooming maintains coat health.

Distinctive Features

The Picardy Spaniel's head is broad and rounded, with a pronounced occiput and a gentle stop leading to a long, wide muzzle that tapers to a rounded, medium-sized brown nose. Its eyes are dark amber, conveying a warm, inviting expression. The ears are low-set, framing the head with silky, wavy fur. The tail is set moderately high, hanging in two subtle curves, indicating a relaxed demeanor. When moving, the Picardy Spaniel strides purposefully, covering ample ground while maintaining a level topline.

Gender Differences

Males are typically taller and more muscular, while females exhibit a more refined elegance, maintaining the breed's inherent strength. In terms of temperament, males may display slightly stronger protective instincts, whereas females often show greater patience and gentleness. In the show ring, conformation that closely adheres to the breed standard is preferred, particularly regarding balanced movement, coat quality, and correct head proportions.

Core Personality Traits

The Picardy Spaniel is known for its calm, gentle, and affectionate demeanor, coupled with an alert and playful nature. Its eagerness to please and sensitivity make it highly receptive to positive training techniques. This breed matures slowly, maintaining its playful side well into adolescence, enhancing its reputation as a delightful family companion.

Social Behavior

These spaniels are sociable and form strong attachments to their families. They generally get along well with other dogs and, when properly introduced, can coexist peacefully with cats and other household pets. Their high prey drive necessitates supervision around smaller animals or wildlife. Typically quiet, they bark mainly to alert their owners rather than excessively.

Working Instincts

As a versatile gundog, the Picardy Spaniel instinctively points and retrieves game. It thrives on purposeful tasks and enjoys water activities. The breed's natural hunting drive and stamina require regular physical and mental challenges to satisfy its instincts and prevent behavioral issues.

Common Behavioral Challenges

Due to its sensitivity, the Picardy Spaniel does not respond well to harsh corrections and may develop anxiety if left alone for long periods. Its high prey drive can lead to chasing behaviors if not consistently managed. Without sufficient mental stimulation and exercise, these dogs can become bored and potentially destructive.

Owners find that gentle, patient handling and structured routines help mitigate common challenges.

The Picardy Spaniel is an intelligent breed with a strong desire to please, making it relatively easy to train for those who appreciate its sensitive nature and working heritage. Training should focus on refining natural instincts through gentle, positive reinforcement methods, avoiding harsh corrections.

Puppy Training Priorities

During the first six months, emphasis should be on socialization, basic obedience commands (sit, stay, come, quiet, leave it), and setting boundaries. Early exposure to various environments, people, and other animals supports well-rounded temperament development. A calm, consistent training regimen fosters confidence and responsiveness.

Training Methods That Work

Food-motivated and sensitive, Picardy Spaniels respond well to reward-based training, using treats and praise to reinforce desired behaviors. Incorporating play and low-stress interactions helps maintain engagement. Consistency and patience are key, with gradual introduction to commands and tasks ensuring better retention.

Advanced Training Potential

With their excellent intelligence and stamina, Picardy Spaniels excel in canine sports such as agility, obedience, and flyball. They are also adept at field trials and versatile hunting roles that require pointing and retrieving. Owners who wish to challenge their dogs mentally and physically can benefit from introducing advanced activities around 6 to 12 months of age.

Common Training Mistakes

Common errors include pushing puppies too hard too soon and using dominant, punitive methods inappropriate for this breed's sensitive disposition. Overlooking early socialization or underestimating the need for mental stimulation can lead to behavioral issues. Owners should avoid inconsistent commands and lack of routine.

Age-Specific Interactions

Picardy Spaniels are generally very good with children of all ages thanks to their gentle and patient nature. Toddlers require constant supervision during interactions to prevent accidental rough handling that might upset the dog. With older children and teenagers, the Picardy Spaniel's playful spirit thrives, creating rewarding companionship and shared outdoor activities.

Teaching Children Proper Interaction

It's vital to educate children on respecting the dog's boundaries, avoiding loud noises and sudden movements, and understanding when the dog needs space. Teaching gentle petting and recognizing signs of stress ensures safe and positive interactions, reducing risks for both dog and child.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Due to their medium size and energy, Picardy Spaniels require families to have secure, well-fenced outdoor spaces for safe play and exercise. Their moderate prey drive means supervision is essential around smaller pets and neighborhood wildlife. Their patience and placid temperament make them especially suitable for families committed to regular exercise and mental engagement of the dog.

Creating Safe Environments

Adult supervision is advised during playtimes, particularly with younger children. Providing safe, quiet spaces where the dog can retreat helps balance social activity and rest. Teaching children to avoid overstimulating the dog fosters harmony within the household. When well socialized, Picardy Spaniels usually adapt well to a busy family life.

Breed-Specific Health Conditions

The Picardy Spaniel typically has a life expectancy of 10 to 13 years with proper care. The breed is generally healthy but can be prone to certain hereditary conditions. These include hip dysplasia, which breeders should monitor through Hip Scoring conducted by certified bodies such as the BVA to minimize risk.

Ectropion and entropion, eyelid conditions causing outward and inward rolling respectively, are also reported occasionally. These can cause irritation or infection and may require veterinary intervention.

The breed is predisposed to ear infections due to their long, low-set ears, making regular ear checks and cleaning essential preventive care.

Genetic Testing Requirements

Breeders are encouraged to participate in hip health schemes and screen for eyelid abnormalities to reduce hereditary health issues. Genetic diversity management is important given the relatively small breed population to avoid "popular sire syndrome" and maintain robust health.

Preventive Healthcare Schedule

Puppies receive initial vaccinations from breeders, with follow-up shots scheduled by new owners at 10 to 12 weeks, completing full immunization two weeks post second vaccination. Discussing booster vaccinations with your vet is recommended based on lifestyle and risks.

Neutering or spaying is generally advised between 6 and 12 months of age, adjusted according to veterinary guidance and individual dog maturity.

Insurance Considerations

Insurance cost and coverage should factor in potential risks such as hip dysplasia and infections. Routine vet visits, treatments, and unexpected health events can make insurance a wise investment. Lifetime cover options, while more expensive, offer comprehensive protection especially for an active, working breed.

Daily Care Routine

Caring for a Picardy Spaniel involves grooming their dense coat weekly to prevent mats and tangles, checking and cleaning ears regularly to prevent infections, and providing ample fresh water daily. Exercise is essential each day, combining walks, play, and mental stimulation to keep the dog happy and healthy.

Puppies require a gently structured environment with restricted access to dangerous objects or areas, plenty of rest, and consistent feeding schedules. Older dogs need tailored care focusing on joint health, weight management, and temperature regulation.

Living Environment Needs

Picardy Spaniels thrive best in homes with secure, fenced gardens that allow free exploration and play. While adaptable to indoor living, they benefit from countryside or rural settings where they can express their natural working instincts safely.

Seasonal Care Adjustments

In summer, watch for overheating and provide shade and water during outdoor activities. In winter, protect from cold and damp conditions with warm bedding and reduced exposure to harsh elements, especially for older dogs.

Senior Care Adaptations

Seniors require softer bedding, gentle exercise to maintain muscle tone without strain, and careful diet management to support aging joints and general health. Regular vet check-ups increase in importance to detect and manage age-related conditions early.

Coat Maintenance Schedule

The Picardy Spaniel's coat requires weekly brushing sessions of 15 to 20 minutes to maintain its health and prevent tangles or mats, focusing on feathered areas like ears and legs. Occasional baths keep the coat clean but not excessively to preserve natural oils.

Professional Grooming Requirements

This breed generally does not require professional grooming appointments unless preparing for shows. Most owners find home grooming sufficient, significantly reducing costs and stress for the dog.

Home Grooming Techniques

Using a slicker brush or soft bristle brush, gently work through the coat starting at the head and moving towards the tail. Checking ears during grooming sessions and cleaning with vet-recommended solutions helps prevent infections. Nail trimming, dental care, and eye cleaning should be regular home maintenance tasks.

Common Grooming Challenges

Owners may encounter mild seasonal shedding requiring extra brushing. Ear infections are a notable concern due to the breed's ear conformation, necessitating vigilant care and cleaning routines to avoid painful conditions. Skin irritation is uncommon but should be monitored.

Daily Exercise Requirements

The Picardy Spaniel requires a minimum of 60 to 80 minutes of varied exercise daily, including brisk walks, play, and mental challenges to expend energy effectively. Puppies need reduced, gentler activity to protect growing joints and prevent injury.

Suitable Activities

This breed excels in activities that combine physical exertion with mental engagement, such as retrieving games, flyball, agility trials, and obedience training. Swimming is especially favored given the dog's love of water.

Exercise Restrictions

Young puppies should avoid high-impact activities like jumping and stair climbing. Older dogs may require adjusted exercise intensity based on health and mobility. Extreme weather conditions demand caution to prevent overheating or cold exposure.

Mental Stimulation Ideas

Incorporate puzzle toys, scent work, training sessions, and interactive games to satisfy the breed's keen intelligence and working drive. Providing varied challenges prevents boredom and promotes behavioral well-being.

Nutritional Requirements

Picardy Spaniels require a well-balanced diet rich in protein (approximately 18-22%) and moderate fat content (around 10-15%) to fuel their active lifestyles. Caloric intake should adjust based on age, activity level, and health status.

Feeding Schedule Guidelines

Puppies ought to be fed 3 to 4 times daily with measured portions to support growth, gradually transitioning to two meals per day for adults. Feeding amounts should be tailored to body weight and exercise output, monitoring for weight gain or loss.

Special Dietary Considerations

While not prone to specific food sensitivities, some individuals may benefit from supplements supporting joint health, such as glucosamine, especially in later years. Avoid high grain or filler-based diets to limit potential digestive upset.

Weight Management

Maintaining an ideal body condition is crucial, avoiding obesity that can strain joints and organs. Regular weighing and body condition scoring help owners keep their dogs healthy and active throughout their life span.

Picardy Spaniel puppies are rare, and well-bred examples can command a significant price, typically ranging from $900 to $1,200 in the USA, depending on the breeder's reputation and lineage quality. Prices may be higher for show-quality puppies or those with exceptional working traits. Potential owners should be prepared for wait times due to the breed's limited availability.

Initial setup costs include purchasing high-quality equipment such as crates, leads, grooming tools, and suitable bedding, which can total $150 to $300. Feeding costs for a medium-sized active dog like the Picardy Spaniel average between $40 and $50 per month, using premium dry or wet dog food formulated for active breeds.

Routine veterinary care including vaccinations, neutering/spaying, flea and worm treatments, and annual health checks generally cost over $300 per year. Insurance premiums vary depending on coverage type but basic plans typically cost around $22 per month, with lifetime policies potentially rising to $44 per month for a 3-year-old dog.

In total, owners should budget approximately $70 to $100 monthly for general upkeep, excluding unexpected health costs. Responsible breeders prioritize health screenings, which may add to initial purchase expenses but contribute to long-term wellbeing.

Finding well-bred Picardy Spaniel puppies in the USA can be challenging due to the breed's rarity. Prospective owners should prepare for possible waiting lists and premiums ranging from $900 to $1,200 for puppies from responsible breeders.

Beware of scams; never purchase puppies sight unseen or pay deposits without visiting breeders personally. It is critical to verify the breeder's legitimacy by checking references, seeing puppies with their dam, and reviewing health clearances.

Responsible breeders will provide documentation on vaccinations, microchipping, and health screening results, including hip scores and eye examinations. Due to the breed's sensitive nature and exercise demands, it's essential to choose breeders familiar with Picardy Spaniels’ specific needs.

Prospective owners should ask about the puppy's socialization history and temperament assessments. Contracts should include guarantees against inherited conditions and outline return policies.

Additionally, adoption options may be limited but should be considered; breed-specific rescues or specialist rehoming groups might offer older Picardy Spaniels needing new homes.